In this episode of “SEO On-Air,” host Aaron Basil sits down with Frank Olivo, CEO of Sagapixel, to uncover the untold truths of starting and growing an SEO business. Frank shares his journey from dabbling in digital marketing during college to leading one of the industry’s notable SEO agencies. This episode is packed with valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, digital marketers, and anyone curious about the SEO world.

Topics Covered:

Frank’s Origin Story:

Frank Olivo’s early exposure to digital marketing in the late 90s, his journey through various roles, and his eventual decision to dive back into the industry full-time in 2013.

The pivotal moment when he decided to turn a freelance gig into a full-fledged business, leading to the founding of Sagapixel.

The Challenges of Starting an SEO Business:

The realities of the first year in business, from working out of a guest room to the struggles of finding clients and growing a team.

The importance of setting target goals and how Frank navigated the uncertainty and challenges of starting his own company.

Hiring and Team Building:

The three key criteria Frank uses for hiring: intelligence, genuine interest in the company, and the ability to get along with the team.

Lessons learned from hiring mistakes and the importance of cultural fit within the team.

Avoiding Burnout:

Frank’s personal experiences with burnout and his strategies for coping, including taking time off and engaging in different activities to recharge.

The Dilemma: Outsourcing vs. In-house:

Pros and cons of outsourcing SEO work versus building an in-house team.

Considerations for maintaining quality control and the type of business model that best supports outsourcing.

Niche vs. Generalist Approach:

The benefits and risks of niching down in the SEO industry, whether by industry or by specific services like link building or content marketing.

The potential impact of economic downturns on specialized agencies and the importance of diversification.

Join us as Frank Olivo pulls back the curtain on the real challenges and rewards of starting an SEO business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers valuable lessons and practical advice.